PHT’s Morning Skate takes a look around the world of hockey to see what’s happening and what we’ll be talking about around the NHL world and beyond.
The case for the Washington Capitals using Alex Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom on the same line. (Washington Post)
Steven Stamkos needed just 26 games to reach the 20 goal mark this season. In 2011-12 he needed 32 contests to reach the same milestone en route to 60 goals. If this wasn’t a shortened campaign, he’d be on pace for 63 goals at this point. (Lightning.nhl.com)
The Chicago Blackhawks have reunited Viktor Stalberg, Andrew Shaw and Bryan Bickell. The line spent the first 24 games together, but was temporarily broken up when Patrick Sharp suffered a shoulder injury. (CSN Chicago)
Winnipeg Jets forward Kyle Wellwood spent four games in the press box after a rough start to the season, but he’s doing much better since he got back into the lineup. (Winnipeg Sun)
Joey MacDonald is enjoying the opportunity that the Calgary Flames have given him since being claimed off of waivers, but it was still tough to leave the Detroit Red Wings’ organization. (Detroit Free Press)
If the San Jose Sharks continue to use Brent Burns as a forward, then that will be good news for 25-year-old rookie Matt Irwin. (CSN Bay Area)
The Minnesota Wild made the signing of defenseman Brett Clark official. Wild GM Chuck Fletcher likes the depth he provides and also admires Clark’s versatility. (Wild.nhl.com)
Former Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson opens up about his decision to join the Edmonton Oilers as a scout. (Edmonton Journal)
Here’s the highlights from the New Jersey Devils’ 5-2 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers: